About the song
“Don’t Stop Believin’,” a quintessential anthem of the 1980s, is a defining song by the American rock band Journey. Released in October 1981 as the second single from their seventh studio album, *Escape*, this track quickly cemented itself as one of the most iconic songs of the era. Crafted by Journey’s powerful trio—vocalist Steve Perry, guitarist Neal Schon, and keyboardist Jonathan Cain—the song stands out with its unforgettable piano riff, which opens the track with a unique and compelling introduction.
The early 1980s were a golden period for Journey, marking their ascent as one of rock’s most successful acts. By the time they were recording *Escape*, the band had undergone some changes. Original keyboardist Gregg Rolie had left the band, making way for Jonathan Cain of the British rock band The Babys. Cain’s arrival brought a fresh sound to Journey’s music, and he was instrumental in the creation of “Don’t Stop Believin’.” The song’s title and central theme were inspired by words of encouragement from Cain’s father during a challenging time in Cain’s early career.
Musically, “Don’t Stop Believin'” is notable for its unconventional structure. The chorus doesn’t appear until late in the song, following two pre-choruses and three verses, creating a build-up that enhances the impact of the central hook. The band recorded the song in a single take at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley, California, capturing the raw energy and authenticity that characterize the track.
The song’s impact was profound. Upon its release, “Don’t Stop Believin'” achieved top-10 status worldwide and became Journey’s signature song. It has continued to resonate through the decades, becoming the best-selling digital track of the 20th century with over seven million downloads. Its anthemic quality has earned it a place on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. In 2022, its cultural significance was further recognized when the Library of Congress selected it for preservation in the United States National Recording Registry.
The song has been covered numerous times, including a notable rendition by the cast of the American TV show *Glee* in 2009, which introduced the classic to a new generation. “Don’t Stop Believin'” remains a timeless piece of rock history, embodying a message of hope and perseverance that continues to inspire listeners around the world.
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Lyrics
Just a small town girl
Livin’ in a lonely world
She took the midnight train goin’ anywhere
Just a city boy
Born and raised in south Detroit
He took the midnight train goin’ anywhere
A singer in a smoky room
A smell of wine and cheap perfume
For a smile they can share the night
It goes on and on, and on, and on
Strangers waiting
Up and down the boulevard
Their shadows searching in the night
Streetlights, people
Living just to find emotion
Hiding somewhere in the night
Working hard to get my fill
Everybody wants a thrill
Payin’ anything to roll the dice
Just one more time
Some will win, some will lose
Some are born to sing the blues
Oh, the movie never ends
It goes on and on, and on, and on
Strangers waiting
Up and down the boulevard
Their shadows searching in the night
Streetlights, people
Living just to find emotion
Hiding somewhere in the night
Don’t stop believin’
Hold on to the feelin’
Streetlights, people
Don’t stop believin’
Hold on
Streetlights, people
Don’t stop believin’
Hold on to the feelin’
Streetlights, people